I understand their importance. Fan signs and fan call events are some of the biggest driving factors in album sales and help build a stronger bond between idols and fans. But I just find the concept so off-putting.
The fact that one has to buy hundreds of albums just to maybe get selected for a chance to talk to their favorite idol feels so exploitative. It doesn’t feel genuine, it’s all about how much you’re willing to spend. On top of that, it’s the same fans, those who can afford a ridiculous amount of money, showing up repeatedly. I imagine it’s not the most welcoming experience for the idols themselves. If I were in their shoes, I’d much rather prefer meeting new fans every time.
Then there’s the dynamic of the events themselves. Some fans approach them respectfully, but others use the time to interrogate idols about personal issues, ask inappropriate questions, or even push them into uncomfortable situations. It feels invasive, and idols are expected to smile and act like everything’s okay no matter what’s thrown at them.
These events can also highlight disparities within a group. Certain members often get overshadowed when fans focus their attention on the more popular members, leaving others feeling neglected. This dynamic can’t be great for morale, especially when some members rarely receive the same level of love or interaction.
I honestly hate everything about it and wish there were a better alternative, something that fosters meaningful interactions between idols and fans while still being viable from a business standpoint. It’s wishful thinking, but how do you guys feel about these events and do you have any ideas?
submitted by /u/betterthan88
[link] [comments]
